Here’s why speeding and aggressive driving can cost YOU £600 a year
Not only is speeding dangerous, it can cost you as well. But it's not just fines from the police that you should worry about
IF you're known for having a bit of a heavy foot, it could be costing you more than just a reputation as a dangerous driver.
New research has shown driving aggressively can cost motorists up to £600 a year more than Brits who take it easy.
The study found drivers that accelerate too quickly and brake too hard could pay up to an additional 17p on each litre of fuel they buy - an average of £582 per year.
America’s Department of Energy asked researchers at its Oak Ridge National Laboratory to look into just how much of an impact speeding and harsh braking had on fuel economy and consumption.
The results showed this kind of aggressive driving behaviour could lower a vehicle's mileage by as much as 40 per cent in heavy traffic, and up to 30 per cent at motorway speeds.
With the average British motorist covering just under 8,000 miles and spending £932 on fuel each year, this means aggressive drivers will have to fork out as much as £1,514 annually on fuel - considering the average UK car manages just under nine miles to the litre.
ORNL's John Thomas, who led the study, said: "Our findings added credence to the idea that an aggressive driving style does affect fuel economy probably more than people think."
Breakdown specialist Ranjen Gohri, of UK-based auto breakdown cover providers 24|7 Vehicle Rescue, recommended a number of tips for more economic driving.
How you can make your car's fuel consumption as economical as possible
- Stick to the speed limit
- Remove an excess luggage and clutter from inside your car to reduce weight
- Use cruise control on motorways
- Slowing accelerate to the speed limit
- Avoid harsh braking
He said: “There’s a number of things you can do in your car which will save you money in the long run.
“They include sticking to the speed limit, not carrying too much weight in your vehicle and using cruise control on long motorway journeys.
“Avoiding aggressive driving can also make a big difference, as well as making your journeys safer.
“Accelerating and then braking suddenly can cause faster wear to your brake pads and tyres, and has the potential to cause them real damage.”
“Hopefully, this research will make aggressive and speeding drivers think twice.
“Not only are their bad habits are a nuisance on our roads, but their driving style will end up hitting them in the pocket.”
